Progesterone
Pronunciation: (proe-JES-ter-one).
- Generic name
- Progesterone
- Brand names
- Prochieve, Utrogestan, Susten, Prometrium, Endometrin, Gestofit
- Drug class
- Progestin (Hormone Replacement Therapy)
Availability and supply rules vary by country
Trade names by country: United States · Canada
Australia: · Full directory
What Progesterone is and how it works
Uses, formulations, monitoring, and supply rules can differ by patient, product, and country. Follow the exact local product information and professional advice.
Mechanism of action: how Progesterone works
Progesterone binds to intracellular progesterone receptors in target tissues, regulating gene expression and modulating the effects of estrogen on the endometrium. It transforms the proliferative endometrium into a secretory one, supports implantation and maintenance of pregnancy, and inhibits gonadotropin secretion, thereby suppressing ovulation. (2)
What Progesterone is used for
Secondary amenorrhea (absent menstrual periods)
FDA-approved indication for oral micronized progesterone (Prometrium): used to induce a withdrawal bleed in women with secondary amenorrhea due to inadequate natural progesterone. (2)
Prevention of endometrial hyperplasia during hormone replacement therapy
FDA-approved indication: given with conjugated estrogens in non-hysterectomized postmenopausal women to oppose the estrogen's effect on the uterine lining and reduce the risk of endometrial hyperplasia. (2)
Luteal-phase support in assisted reproductive technology (ART)
Vaginal progesterone products are used to support the uterine lining and early pregnancy in women undergoing ART; recorded in the clinician-authored database. (2)
Before taking Progesterone
Do not take / not appropriate for
- active or history of thromboembolic disorders, breast or genital malignancy, severe hepatic impairment, undiagnosed vaginal bleeding, and hypersensitivity to progesterone. (Contraindication) (2)
Tell your clinician about
(2)How to take Progesterone
- General Instructions: Take progesterone exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider. The dose, form, and timing depend on your condition and the specific product used.. Adult Dosing: Typical oral dose for hormone replacement therapy: 100–200 mg daily at bedtime for 10–14 days per cycle. For luteal support in ART: 200–400 mg daily (oral, vaginal, or rectal). Dosing may vary based on indication and formulation.. Pediatric Dosing: Progesterone is rarely used in children. Pediatric dosing should be determined by a specialist.. Administration: Oral capsules should be swallowed whole with water, usually at bedtime. Vaginal forms should be inserted as directed. Follow instructions for topical or injectable forms carefully.. When To Stop: Do not stop taking progesterone suddenly without consulting your doctor. Your provider will advise when and how to discontinue, depending on your treatment plan.. Storage: Store at room temperature (below 25°C/77°F), away from moisture and heat. Keep out of reach of children.
- This page does not provide a dose calculator. Dosing must follow the prescriber, pharmacist, or product label.
Procedures and treatment changes
Tell the treating team before surgery, procedures, or any medicine change. Do not alter treatment without the responsible clinician. (2)
Missed dose
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular schedule. Do not double up doses.
Overdose
If you suspect an overdose, seek emergency medical attention. Symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, dizziness, drowsiness, or vaginal bleeding. Supportive care is recommended. (2)
Side effects
Side effects and their urgency vary; report severe, persistent, or concerning symptoms to a healthcare professional.
Headache
Incidence: Reported in the clinician-authored database and the FDA label reviewed for this page; frequency not established
Breast tenderness
Incidence: Reported in the clinician-authored database and the FDA label reviewed for this page; frequency not established
Bloating
Incidence: Reported in the clinician-authored database; frequency not established
Mood changes
Incidence: Reported in the clinician-authored database and the FDA label reviewed for this page; frequency not established
Dizziness/drowsiness
Incidence: Reported in the clinician-authored database and the FDA label reviewed for this page; frequency not established
Mild abdominal pain
Incidence: Reported in the clinician-authored database; frequency not established
Possible blood clot
What to notice: Sudden severe headache, chest pain, shortness of breath, leg pain/swelling, or vision changes
What to do: Seek immediate medical attention — these can indicate a serious blood clot, stroke, or heart attack, a recognized risk of progestins. (1)
Serious warnings
Increased risk of blood clots, stroke, and heart attack, especially in women over 35 or those who smoke — serious
Symptoms: Increased risk of blood clots, stroke, and heart attack, especially in women over 35 or those who smoke. May worsen certain conditions such as depression, migraines, or epilepsy. Not recommended for use in pregnancy unless prescribed for luteal support. May interact with other medications, including some antifungals, anticonvulsants, and herbal supplements. Monitor for signs of liver dysfunction or allergic reaction.
Action: Follow the urgency stated and seek prompt or emergency care when indicated. (2)
Contraindications recorded in the clinician database — serious
Symptoms: Contraindications recorded in the clinician database: Contraindications include active or history of thromboembolic disorders, breast or genital malignancy, severe hepatic impairment, undiagnosed vaginal bleeding, and hypersensitivity to progesterone. Use with caution in patients with depression, migraines, epilepsy, asthma, cardiovascular or renal disease.
Action: Follow the urgency stated and seek prompt or emergency care when indicated. (2)
Interactions
| Medicine or test | Effect | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Recorded interactions | Progesterone can interact with other medications, including certain anticonvulsants (e.g., phenytoin, carbamazepine), antifungals (e.g., ketoconazole), rifampin, and herbal supplements like St. John's Wort. These interactions may reduce effectiveness or increase side effects. Always inform your healthcare provider of all medications and supplements you are taking. | (1) |
Pregnancy, breastfeeding, kidney/liver function, age
Pregnancy
Oral micronized progesterone (Prometrium) is FDA-labeled for use only up to the 12th week of pregnancy in the context of assisted reproductive technology; the label reviewed for this page states progesterone should not otherwise be used during pregnancy except under specialist direction, since its safety and effectiveness for maintaining a pregnancy beyond ART-related indications have not been established. (2)
Breastfeeding
The FDA label reviewed for this page states progesterone is excreted in human milk in small quantities; because of the potential for adverse effects on a nursing infant, a decision should be made whether to discontinue breastfeeding or discontinue the drug, taking into account the mother's need for treatment. (2)
Children
Frequency: Not applicable. Weight Based: Not recommended for pediatric use. Max Daily Dose: Not applicable. Max Single Dose: Not applicable. Age Restrictions: Safety not established in children (2)
Renal_impairment
Per the FDA label reviewed for this page, no formal pharmacokinetic studies of hepatic or renal disease on progesterone disposition have been conducted. Because progesterone is metabolized by the liver, the label states use is contraindicated in patients with severe hepatic dysfunction or disease; in mild-to-moderate hepatic impairment, use requires careful monitoring. Because progesterone metabolites are eliminated mainly by the kidneys, the label advises use with caution and careful monitoring in patients with renal dysfunction — no specific dose reduction is given. (2)
Hepatic_impairment
Per the FDA label reviewed for this page, no formal pharmacokinetic studies of hepatic or renal disease on progesterone disposition have been conducted. Because progesterone is metabolized by the liver, the label states use is contraindicated in patients with severe hepatic dysfunction or disease; in mild-to-moderate hepatic impairment, use requires careful monitoring. Because progesterone metabolites are eliminated mainly by the kidneys, the label advises use with caution and careful monitoring in patients with renal dysfunction — no specific dose reduction is given. (2)
Monitoring
(2)Storage
Per the FDA label, store oral micronized progesterone capsules at 20-25 degrees C (68-77 degrees F), with excursions permitted to 15-30 degrees C (59-86 degrees F); protect from light and keep out of reach of children. Vaginal and other formulations should be stored per their own product label, which may differ.
Professional information
Clinician-facing context only. This section does not replace current product labeling.
General
Indication: Recorded indication
Dose summary: Oral micronized progesterone (Prometrium): 400 mg once daily at bedtime for 10 days to induce a withdrawal bleed in secondary amenorrhea; 200 mg once daily at bedtime for 12 days per 28-day cycle for endometrial hyperplasia prevention with conjugated estrogens. Vaginal/ART luteal-support products are typically 90-400 mg daily depending on the specific product — follow that product's own label.
Renal context: The FDA label reviewed for this page states no formal renal-impairment studies have been done; because progesterone metabolites are eliminated mainly by the kidneys, the label advises using progesterone with caution and careful monitoring in patients with renal dysfunction. No specific reduced-dose regimen is given. (2)
Frequently asked questions
What is progesterone used for?
Progesterone is used to treat menstrual disorders, abnormal uterine bleeding, infertility, and as part of hormone replacement therapy for menopausal symptoms. It is also used to support early pregnancy in women undergoing fertility treatments.
How should I take progesterone?
Take progesterone exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Follow the instructions for your specific formulation (oral, vaginal, injection, or topical). Taking it at bedtime may reduce side effects like dizziness or drowsiness.
What are the most common side effects?
Common side effects include headache, breast tenderness, bloating, mood changes, dizziness, and mild abdominal pain. Most side effects are mild and temporary.
Who should not take progesterone?
Do not take progesterone if you have a history of breast cancer, active blood clots, unexplained vaginal bleeding, severe liver disease, or allergy to progesterone.
Can I use progesterone during pregnancy?
Progesterone is sometimes prescribed to support early pregnancy, especially in women undergoing fertility treatments. Do not use it during pregnancy unless specifically directed by your doctor.
Does progesterone interact with other medications?
Yes, progesterone can interact with certain anticonvulsants, antifungals, antibiotics, and herbal supplements. Always inform your healthcare provider about all medications and supplements you are taking.
What should I do if I miss a dose?
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember, unless it is almost time for your next dose. Do not double up doses. If you are unsure, contact your healthcare provider for advice.
What happens if I take too much Progesterone?
Taking too much Progesterone can lead to intensified side effects such as severe dizziness, drowsiness, or abnormal vaginal bleeding. In cases of suspected overdose, it is crucial to seek immediate emergency medical attention. Always adhere to your prescribed dosage to avoid potential complications and ensure your safety.
Can I drink alcohol while taking Progesterone?
While moderate alcohol consumption may not be strictly contraindicated, it's generally advisable to limit or avoid alcohol while taking Progesterone. Alcohol can exacerbate some side effects of progestins, such as dizziness and drowsiness, potentially impairing your ability to perform tasks requiring alertness. Consult your healthcare provider for personalized advice.
Is Progesterone safe during pregnancy?
The safety of Progesterone during pregnancy varies depending on the specific indication and individual circumstances. It is classified under a pregnancy category that requires careful consideration. Therefore, it is absolutely essential to consult with your doctor or healthcare provider to discuss the risks and benefits before using Progesterone if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant.
What is the mechanism of action of Progesterone?
Progesterone binds to intracellular progesterone receptors in target tissues, regulating gene expression and modulating the effects of estrogen on the endometrium. It transforms the proliferative endometrium into a secretory one, supports implantation and maintenance of pregnancy, and inhibits gonadotropin secretion, thereby suppressing ovulation. (2)
What is the generic name of Progesterone?
The generic name is Progesterone. It is sold under brand names including Prochieve, Utrogestan, Susten, Prometrium, Endometrin, Gestofit.
What class of drug is Progesterone?
Progesterone is classed as: Progestin (Hormone Replacement Therapy).
References
- Progesterone - Clinician DatabaseMedGuideGlobal · United States · accessed 2026-08-07 · source 1
- Progesterone - Prescribing InformationU.S. Food and Drug Administration · United States · accessed 2026-08-07 · source 2
- ENDOMETRIN (PROGESTERONE) INSERT [FERRING PHARMACEUTICALS INC.] — US prescribing information (DailyMed SPL)U.S. National Library of Medicine (DailyMed) · US · accessed 2026-08-14 · source 3
- Progesterone — patient drug information (MedlinePlus)U.S. National Library of Medicine (MedlinePlus) · US · accessed 2026-08-14 · source 4
- PROGESTERONE — FDA approval record (Drugs@FDA ANDA200900)U.S. Food and Drug Administration · US · accessed 2026-08-14 · source 5
- Progesterone — RxNorm normalized drug concept (RXCUI 8727)U.S. National Library of Medicine (RxNorm) · US · accessed 2026-08-14 · source 6
Brand names by country
Single-ingredient Progesterone names are shown separately by country. Product availability, strengths, and supply rules can change; combination products are not included here.
Priority countries
United States
- Prometrium200 mg, 100 mg · acertis pharmaceuticals, llc
- Crinone45 mg.125g, 90 mg.125g · allergan, inc.
- Progest-Oil-2oz-SB12.8 g/60g · shyne brands/biolabs pro
- Natural Progesterone8 [hp_X]/mL · bioactive nutritional, inc.
- P25 Progesterone Cream25 mg/85g · shyne brands
- P50 Progesterone Cream1 mg/mg · shyne brands
- P75 Maxx with Retinol All Natural Progesterone 75 Cream1 mg/mg · shyne brands
- Progesterone Combo5 [hp_X]/mL · nutritional specialties, inc.
- Femarone 2020 mg/58g · wise essentials llc
- ENDOMETRIN100 mg · ferring pharmaceuticals inc.
Canada
- PROGESTERONE INJ
- PROMETRIUM
- CRINONE
- ENDOMETRIN